Here is a table summarizing the effects of various cannabinoids on the immune system –
http://www.nap.edu/html/marimed/ch2_t7.html
and this is from chapter 2 of ‘Marijuana and Medicine - Assessing the Science Base’ - (read it!)
‘Cannabinoids, especially THC, can modulate the function of immune cells in various ways--in some cases enhancing and in others diminishing the immune response (summarized in Table 2.7 above). However, the natural function of cannabinoids in the immune system is not known. Immune cells respond to cannabinoids in a variety of ways, depending on such factors as drug concentration, timing of drug delivery to leukocytes in relation to antigen stimulation, and type of cell function. Although the chronic effects of cannabinoids on the immune system have not been studied, based on acute exposure studies in experimental animals it appears that THC concentrations that modulate immunological responses are higher than those required for psycho-activity.’
Add to this the fact that marijuana is very high in essential fatty acids (omega 3,6 and 9) and that there are no reported cases of cancer from ingesting it and I find it more likely that a person’s tendency towards illness is a function of their nutrient levels and is independent of pot usage. Every other food high in fatty acids is considered extremely beneficial for human health (oily fish, evening primrose oil etc), and omega 3 consumption is now being pushed by the American FDA as it’s benefits have been proven. Below is a quote from another post of mine, which is relevant here also -
The body needs a constant supply of certain nutrients simply to maintain itself; without these it will deteriorate whether you smoke pot or not. If your body is fueled up and running well, it will be able to deal more efficiently with all biochemical loads.
I take the following daily:
1000mg calcium ascorbate (at least, usually 2000mg)
100mg vitamin B1
100mg vitamin B2
100mg vitamin B3
100mg vitamin B5
50mg vitamin B6
100mcg vitamin B12
100mcg folic acid
50mcg biotin
100mg choline bitartrate
100mg insotol
100mg aminobenzoic acid
500iu natural vit E
1000mg evening primrose oil
500mg amino acid chelate magnesium
1 acidophilus cap
1 hawthorn berry cap
and of course about 20 cones! And I haven’t been sick in about 10 years and no doctor can find anything wrong with me – much to their chagrin…